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Cruise tourism in Madagascar.

Near 500 high-end tourists. This is the number of passengers transported by the cruise ship called “Nautica” of the company Oceania Cruises belonging to the Holding Norwegian Corporation Ltd group which will once again touch the port of Nosy-Be in March, after having already come last January. It is Madagascar Airtours S.A which receives it as part of its Tour operating activities. « The particularity of the cruise ships that we receive is that they are luxury liners., either five-star buildings. », explained Olivia Madhow-Rasoamanarivo, the director of Madagascar Airtours S.A.

One year of reservation. Almost the majority of these cruise passengers disembarked to discover the nature and biodiversity of the Big Island as part of marine and land excursions organized in one day. Apart from the visits, they also go to the “Bazary Be” market to buy souvenir items, especially handicraft products.. There were also cultural and folkloric events. Note that this type of cruise ship working with the local Tour Operator, for the reservation is made one year in advance for its customers. « We train our team well because between 80% and 90% of these high-end tourists are American nationals. They are notably retirees demanding luxury services. Those who are still active are presidents or vice-presidents or company directors », she continued.

Eleven affected. In the wake, the local population directly benefits from cruise tourism. « Indeed, she comes home with her due at the end of the day. We mobilize, among other things,, around a hundred local tourist guides to welcome these cruise passengers, not to mention the rental of cars and small boats on site. Restaurateurs, artistic groups and artisans also benefit, because their services are already included in the product package offered to cruise ships. You should know that we are the first to receive cruise ships in the country. It was in the years 70. We operate in all ports, but in particular in Nosy-Be where there were eleven affected during the previous season », She chained.

Blue economy. On the other hand, cruise tourism is now a product bringing together the member countries of the Vanilla Islands including Madagascar for the promotion of the Indian Ocean destination. « Madagascar has all the assets to exploit it as part of the development of the blue economy. It’s a windfall on the economic level. We, Tourism operators, will benefit from the extension of the port of Toamasina. We also thank the State for canceling visa fees for cruise lines, because that could be the price of an excursion”, concluded Olivia Madhow-Rasoamanarivo.

by Hôtel★★★ Restaurant gourmand Coco Lodge Majunga

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